Dental X-Ray Facts

Posted January 9, 2017.

Dental X-rays are a diagnostic tool used to help our dentists detect any decay, infection, or other issues that are not visible with the naked eye. Dr. Bryan and Dr. Davis may decide to take dental X-rays at your regular dental exam. How often they take X-rays is based on your age, oral health, risk for disease, and any signs or symptoms of an oral disease.

There are several different types of X-rays, including:

– Intraoral X-Rays: The X-ray film is inside the mouth. This type of X-ray provides a lot of detail, thus allowing our dentists to detect cavities, monitor the status of developing teeth, check the health of the teeth and jawbone, and inspect the health of tooth roots.

– Extraoral X-Rays: The X-ray film is outside the mouth. The main focus of these X-rays is the jaw and skull, but they show the teeth as well. Extraoral X-rays are used to detect impacted teeth, monitor the development of the jaws in relation to the teeth, and detect any potential problems with the temporomandibular joint.

– Digital X-Rays: Modern technology allows dentists to use digital X-rays, or digital imaging. Instead of developing the X-ray film in a dark room, the images are sent directly to the computer, where they can be viewed, printed, and saved. Digital X-rays can be enhanced and enlarged so that our dentists can more easily spot any dental issues and show you where the problem is. Digital images can be sent electronically to a specialist, if needed.

For more information about digital imaging in Medford, Oregon, and to schedule your next appointment, we welcome you to contact Northwest Dental Associates today. Our dentist and team looks forward to serving you and your smile!